Over the past several years, Isvanas has become a key part of the Lithuanian Roma community. He became a chef by taking part in the ‘Let’s work with Roma’ project and went on to open his very own restaurant. His success has acted as a springboard for others in the Roma community. After gaining experience in his establishment, he has noted that ‘many people set up their own restaurant or go to work in another great place’.

Now recognised on TV, Isvanas encourages other Roma people to achieve their goals and do something they love. The project opened a number of paths for Isvanas, and he makes the most of his voice to support others.

Isvanas gained experience and confidence through his participation in integration projects implemented by the Public Institution Roma Community Centre. Funded by the European Social Fund (ESF), the project breaks down socioeconomic barriers and stereotypes by providing access to informal and formal qualifications. It combines activities to give young Roma people a chance to find work they enjoy and disprove negative stereotypes around their community. To achieve this, social workers support the participants with advice and individual career plans. 

The Public Institution Roma Community Centre helps Roma facing discrimination, social exclusion and other challenges to find the strength to start a career. ‘There are not one or two such stories, it hurts, but I urge you not to give up,’ says Isvanas. ‘There are different people among the Roma, yes, not all stories are beautiful. But it's time to end grouping [people] and sticking labels on them... Let's judge a person on his accomplishments and give them a chance.’